The initial stage in conducting in vivo studies via nuclear imaging involves the synthesis of labelled molecules of interest, laying the foundation for accurate imaging. Carbon and nitrogen, being fundamental constituents of life, along with fluorine, prevalent in numerous pharmaceuticals, underscore the importance of expanding the repertoire of labelling methodologies to facilitate the production of ¹¹C-, ¹³N-, and ¹⁸F-labelled compounds, thereby aiding imaging scientists in crafting specific radiotracers.

The research endeavours of Llop's group are prominently focused on advancing ¹³N-nitrosation reactions, enzymatic ¹³N-amination, ¹¹C-C bond formation utilising Negishi cross-coupling reactions, and ion-induced radiofluorination reactions. Leveraging the discernibility and quantifiability of radiolabelled molecules through chromatographic techniques, the group actively explores multi-radionuclide labelling to probe the mechanistic intricacies of chemical reactions."